STEM

Ninth grade science at the Academy for Career and College Education began the usual way last fall. Victoria Matthew's students learned the difference between biotic and abiotic characteristics, then progressed to the basics of scientific method. By Thanksgiving, they were ready for climate change.

It may not have been as required in the economy 40 years ago, but now, it is skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) which can make a school leaver or graduate an enticing prospect to employers — even more important when faced with a stagnant economy.

A new bill (SB 893) was approved by the Tennessee Senate that will protect teachers who wish to promote "alternate" scientific theories, essentially allowing anti-evolutionists and climate change deniers a voice in the science classroom.

Jackson Public Schools needs about $176.2 million for renovation, repair and modernization of classrooms, according to the Council of the Great City Schools, a coalition of U.S. urban school districts.